Oaten to quit Lib Dem leadership race

Mark Oaten is to pull out of the contest for the Liberal Democrat leadership, it was confirmed today.

Mr Oaten's spokesman confirmed he would make a statement later formally quitting the race.

The spokesman said: "Mark Oaten will make a statement at 3.30pm announcing he is withdrawing his candidacy."

The confirmation follows reports on Guardian Unlimited website that Mr Oaten was to quit the contest.

Mr Oaten was trailing fourth in the contest, behind acting leader Sir MenziesCampbell, party president Simon Hughes and even Chris Huhne, who has only beenan MP since May.

The Home Affairs spokesman has also become entangled in an embarrassing row over leaked emails.

Charles Kennedy's office have accused his team of leaking messages that implied the former leader was supporting him.

It was also suggested that just one of the seven MPs who nominated him had promised to vote for him.

His withdraw comes hours before the formal launch of Sir Menzies' campaign.

Mr Oaten's campaign manager Lembit Opik, who has been struck by a stomach bug, said: "It was Mark's declaration that he was going to stand that ensured there was a contest.

"The others came in after him. It was he that ensured there was a choice for the membership."

Mr Huhne said: "I regret that Mark Oaten is withdrawing from the LiberalDemocrat leadership election.

"While I understand his reasons for withdrawing, this does mean that party members have less choice over the leadership of the party.

"Mark's contribution to the parliamentary party and his liberal defence of civil liberties have been inspiring.

"In debates on ID cards and the proposed extension of detention without charge Mark has been outstanding.

"I am certain that Mark Oaten will continue to play a leading role at the top levels of the party."